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A training program on “Early Identification and Coordination of Children with Disabilities” was successfully conducted on 11th March 2026 at the Primary Health Centre (PHC), Ubalanka, in Ravulapalem Block. The program was organised by Badugu Mahima Rao (CBR) with the aim of strengthening the capacity of frontline health workers in identifying developmental delays among children at an early stage and ensuring timely referral and coordination for appropriate medical and rehabilitation services.

The program witnessed the participation of 49 health workers and community representatives, including 33 ASHA workers, 8 ANMs, and 8 other participants. Their active participation reflected the growing commitment among grassroots health workers to address issues related to childhood disabilities and promote early intervention at the community level.

The training session was led by Mr. Badugu Mahimarao, CBR Coordinator, who emphasized the importance of early identification of developmental delays in children, particularly those below three years of age. In his address, he explained that early detection plays a crucial role in reducing the severity of disabilities and improving the overall development and quality of life of children through timely medical care and rehabilitation support.

He highlighted the significant role played by frontline health workers such as ASHA workers and ANMs, who maintain close contact with families in villages. Because of their regular visits and interactions with mothers and children, these health workers are in a unique position to observe developmental milestones and identify early warning signs of disabilities. He encouraged them to remain vigilant and guide families toward appropriate health services whenever developmental concerns are noticed.

The training focused on practical and field-oriented learning. Participants were guided on understanding developmental milestones in early childhood, identifying early signs of developmental delays, and referring suspected cases to appropriate medical specialists and diagnostic centres for further evaluation and treatment. The session aimed to equip health workers with the necessary knowledge and confidence to act promptly when they encounter developmental concerns during their community visits.

An important session was delivered by Ms. Badugu Subbayamma, State Advocacy Coordinator (LAMP), who spoke about the rights, entitlements, pensions, and concessions available for persons with disabilities. She explained various government welfare schemes and support systems designed to assist persons with disabilities and their families. She also stressed the importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities are actively included in village-level committees and community decision-making processes, emphasizing that building an inclusive society requires the collective effort of officials, health workers, and community members.

The program was also attended by Mr. Chittibabu, Supervisor of Ubalanka PHC, along with other health staff members. They appreciated the initiative taken to strengthen community-based systems for the early identification and referral of children with disabilities, noting that such training programs help improve coordination between community workers and healthcare institutions.

Overall, the training program proved to be highly beneficial in enhancing the knowledge, awareness, and practical skills of frontline health workers regarding early identification and referral mechanisms. By strengthening the capacity of grassroots health workers, the program contributes to the broader goal of early intervention, inclusive development, and improved well-being for children with disabilities in the community.

A training program on “Early Identification and Coordination of Children with Disabilities” was organized on 10 March 2026 at the Primary Health Centre (PHC), Ryali, in Atreyapuram Block. The program was conducted by Badugu Mahima Rao, Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Coordinator, as part of the efforts to strengthen community-level identification and support for children with developmental challenges.

A total of 44 frontline health workers participated in the training program. The participants included 33 ASHA workers, 8 ANMs, and 3 other health staff members. Their participation reflected the commitment of grassroots health functionaries toward improving early identification and intervention for children with disabilities in the community.

The training session was guided by Mr. Badugu Mahima Rao, who highlighted the importance of early identification of developmental delays among children, particularly those below three years of age. He explained that recognizing developmental concerns at an early stage allows for timely medical intervention, rehabilitation, and family support, which can significantly reduce the severity and long-term impact of disabilities. He also emphasized that frontline health workers such as ASHA workers and ANMs play a vital role because of their close connection with families and their regular presence in villages.

During the session, the participants were oriented on several practical aspects related to community-based identification and coordination, including:

• Understanding basic developmental milestones in early childhood.
• Recognizing early warning signs of developmental delays and disabilities.
• Providing initial guidance to parents and caregivers.
• Referring suspected cases to appropriate medical professionals and diagnostic services for further evaluation and intervention.

The resource person for the program, Ms. Badugu Subbayamma, State Advocacy Coordinator (LAMP), addressed the participants on the rights and entitlements of persons with disabilities. She explained the various government provisions available, including pensions, concessions, and welfare schemes. She also stressed the importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities are included in village-level committees and community decision-making processes, thereby promoting an inclusive and rights-based approach to development.

The training witnessed active participation and interaction from the frontline health workers. Mr. Samuel, Supervisor of Ryali PHC, along with other health staff members, attended the session and appreciated the initiative taken to strengthen the community-based identification and referral system for children with disabilities.

Overall, the program contributed to enhancing the knowledge, awareness, and practical skills of frontline health workers in identifying developmental delays at an early stage and facilitating timely referrals and support services. Such initiatives play a crucial role in promoting early intervention, inclusive health practices, and improved well-being for children with disabilities in rural communities.

On 3 January 2026, the 195th birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule, widely regarded as the Mother of Education, was observed with great respect and inspiration. The day is celebrated as National Women Teachers’ Day in recognition of her pioneering contribution to women’s education in India.

During a time when society strongly opposed education for women, Savitribai Phule courageously stood against social discrimination and injustice. She firmly believed that education was essential for everyone, especially for women and the oppressed communities who were denied access to learning. With this conviction, she established a school in their mango orchard and began teaching girls, becoming India’s first woman teacher.

Savitribai Phule was not only an educator but also a great social reformer. Inspired and supported by her husband, Jyotirao Phule, she worked tirelessly to ensure that women of all castes had equal access to education, just like men. Her efforts challenged deep-rooted social inequalities and opened the doors of learning for thousands who had been excluded from education for centuries.

Her service extended beyond education. During the outbreak of the Bubonic plague, she devoted herself to caring for the sick and the suffering. While serving plague victims, she eventually contracted the disease herself and passed away, leaving behind a legacy of courage, compassion, and social commitment.

After the death of Jyotirao Phule, Savitribai continued to lead and sustain the work of the reform movement he founded, the Satyashodhak Samaj, ensuring that its mission of social equality and justice continued.

The day was observed by PARA with the active participation of members from MACs (Mutually Aided Cooperative Society) and children associated with DB Tech. The program began with paying floral tribute to Savitribai Phule by garlanding her portrait as a mark of deep respect.

Mr. Srinivas from the District Child Protection Unit (DCPU) attended the event as the guest speaker. In his address, he highlighted the importance of education in empowering women and children, and explained how the vision of Savitribai Phule continues to inspire efforts for social justice and equal opportunities today. He encouraged the children and participants to value education and work towards building a society free from discrimination.

During the event, speakers reflected on the life and struggles of Savitribai Phule and emphasized her immense contribution to women’s education, social equality, and empowerment. The children and members participated actively, sharing their thoughts and learning about the importance of education and social awareness.

A total of 23 members participated in the program, making the celebration meaningful and inspiring.

The observance of Savitribai Phule’s birth anniversary served not only as a tribute to a pioneering educator and social reformer but also as a reminder of the continuing need to promote education, equality, and dignity for all sections of society. Her life and work remain a powerful inspiration for communities to strive for a future where every child—regardless of gender or social background—has access to education and opportunities.

National Girl Child Day was observed on 24th January 2026 to promote awareness about the rights, education, and welfare of girls. Earlier, this day was not widely recognized at the grassroots level, but recently the government has taken steps to celebrate it more actively through the Women and Child Welfare Department in schools and villages.

On this occasion, various awareness activities were conducted to highlight the importance of educating and empowering the girl child. The Women and Child Welfare Department organized programs in several schools and hostels to sensitize children and communities about the value of girls in society.

PARA played a vital role in supporting and participating in these celebrations. The programs were conducted in the following institutions:

·       Girls Hostel, Kothapeta

·       ZPHS, Peravaram

·       ZPGHS, Alamuru

During the programs, children were sensitized about the importance of girl child education, equality, and protection of their rights. Discussions and interactions were held to encourage students to respect and support girls’ opportunities in education and society.

The celebration helped create awareness among students and staff about the significance of National Girl Child Day and the need to ensure a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for girls.

The Government of Andhra Pradesh, under the guidance of the Women and Child Welfare Department, launched a special “Child Marriage Free Andhra Pradesh” campaign. This campaign was conducted for 100 days from 27th November to 8th March, aiming to create awareness and prevent child marriages across the state.

At the grassroots level, the program was implemented through the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) department. In this initiative, PARA actively supported the campaign in all its working villages located in the blocks of Alamuru, Ravulapalem, Atreyapuram, and Kothapeta.

The awareness activities were mainly organized in schools and village communities. Through meetings, discussions, and interactive sessions, children and community members were educated about the harmful consequences of child marriage, including its impact on health, education, and future opportunities. Special emphasis was placed on informing children about their rights and encouraging them to speak up and prevent child marriages.

PARA covered 32 villages in its target region during this campaign. The sessions focused on:

• Explaining the legal age of marriage.
• Creating awareness about the social, educational, and health impacts of child marriage.
• Guiding children and community members on how to prevent and report child marriages.
• Encouraging collective responsibility among teachers, parents, and village leaders to protect children.

The campaign helped in strengthening awareness among students and villagers, motivating them to work together towards the goal of making communities free from child marriages.